"Internal difference where the meanings are." A Poem a Day to Celebrate National Poetry Month

A celebration of National Poetry Month wouldn't be complete without at least one poem by the talented Emily Dickinson. It isn't winter anymore, but I think we can all imagine the unique sensation of cold thin sunlight on a brisk afternoon.

LXXXII - Emily Dickinson 

There's a certain slant of light,
On winter afternoons,
That oppresses, like the weight
Of cathedral tunes.

Heavenly hurt it gives us; 
We can find no scar,
But internal difference
Where the meanings are.

None may teach it anything,
'T is the seal, despair,—
An imperial affliction
Sent us of the air.

When it comes, the landscape listens,
Shadows hold their breath;
When it goes, 't is like the distance 
On the look of death.

R
Submitted by Redding, CT

Become a Local Voice in Your Community!

HamletHub invites you to contribute stories, events, and more to keep your neighbors informed and connected.

Read Next